LAS VEGAS – Alistair Overeem’s first-round destruction of Brock Lesnar at UFC 141 officially announced his arrival as a UFC contender, but it was hardly an overnight arrival on the scene.

“The Reem” has been fighting professionally since 1999, and he feels he’s paid more than his share of dues.

But now, Overeem (36-11 MMA, 1-0 UFC) has earned himself a shot at the UFC heavyweight title, and the Britsh-born bruiser said the key to success is simple.

“You always have to prove a point,” Overeem said following Saturday night’s post-event press conference, which took place at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena. “For some people, they don’t have to do it that much, but I’m the type that my road to success has been long. But the thing is, if you keep achieving good things and just keep knocking people out, you’re going to get there.”

There were questions surrounding both fighters leading into the headlining matchup of UFC 141, but Overeem was the one with all the answers.

Physical fitness and proper gameplan despite a disrupted training camp? Check. Enough takedown defense to hold off a massive former collegiate wrestling champ? Check. And when it became clear that Lesnar was out of options, the patient Overeem went into overdrive, pounding his opponent with brutal punches and knees before landing a crushing kick to the liver that led to the first-round stoppage.

Up next, a challenge of the once-beaten UFC heavyweight champion, Junior Dos Santos. Overeem hasn’t tasted defeat since 2007, but Dos Santos will surely provide the stiffest test of that run. Overeem said he recognizes what lies in front of him, but he’s looking forward to the challenge.

“I’m motivated,” Overeem said. “I’ve got a lot of energy. I can’t wait to get started.”

Check out the embedded video to hear more on Overeem’s thoughts on the fight, what ultimately led to his victory and when he hopes to face Dos Santos.

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